Photo: Diane Abapo, SUSPENDMAG.com
What is the most rewarding step in the music production process / Is there a particular aspect you enjoy more than others? JARELL PERRY: The part when it's done and you can say hell yeah, we did that. We did that shit.
What’s the inspiration behind "Black Valentine"? Most of the songs on the EP gather something from the voices in my head - this [song] was inspired by one of those voices. There's this ongoing tension in the lyrics that makes the song more dramatic, so I thought it'd be cool to highlight that darkness with a concept like "Black Valentine."
How long was the process behind making your WHITE EP ? It was about a year of writing, living, re-writing, and living all of the experiences that put it together.
What song are you most excited to perform tonight at Bootleg HiFi Theatre? We're doing a song that's never been released or really heard by anyone. It's always dope to see the reaction to something that new.
What was it like going on tour with Yuna? Did she give you any tips about Music, the Industry, or Life in general? It was one of the dopest things I've done this year. All of the cities were really embracing of what we brought. Yuna, she doesn't need to even say anything, she just radiates this authenticity and positive energy and you get it.
What’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received? Once you find something you love, take every opportunity to do that thing. It all starts with yes.
Do you have any backstage rituals before you perform on-stage? It's usually one or all of these things: close my eyes, say a prayer, and take a shot.
What was the last song you listened to? Last movie you watched? Last book you read? Last meal you cooked? "Sleeping In" by The Postal Service...Ted is on HBO right now...Success Through Stillness by Russell Simmons was the last book I finished. I can't remember the last time I cooked.
Where do you feel most SUSPEND-ed? I'm an only child so I got really comfortable with being alone. On a rare day when I actually wake up early, I go up to my rooftop and just sit in reflection while the sun's coming up. It sounds weird but that's definitely one of my happy places.